DR Congo: Security Council welcomes holding of elections, urges calm

2 December 2011  The Security Council today congratulated the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for turning up in large numbers to cast their ballots in this week’s presidential and legislative elections, calling it a demonstration of their commitment to democracy.

In a press statement that following a closed-door briefing by the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for DRC, Roger Meece, the Council reminded all political leaders and candidates that they are responsible for ensuring a fair and peaceful electoral process.

Members of the Council urged candidates to exercise restraint as they await the results of Monday’s elections, stressing that any disputes must be resolved peacefully through the established legal and mediation mechanisms, including the National Mediation Committee.

The Council condemned incidents of violence in some areas and urged candidates and their supporters to refrain from any acts of violence, provocation and incitement before and after the publication of the provisional and final results of the polls.

The 15-member UN body stressed the need for “thorough, credible, impartial and transparent investigation into such acts of violence, in order to bring to justice those responsible.” They also underlined the need to protect and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms.

The Council commended the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission, known by its French acronym as CENI, despite the difficulties of the electoral process.

It voiced support for the critical role played by the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in DRC (MONUSCO), which is headed by Mr. Meece, in providing technical and logistical assistance for the elections and promoting dialogue. The Council also expressed appreciation for the support provided by States and regional organizations and commended the work of national and international observers.